Who’s yer teacher?

I have been noticing lately that art education, is dying. Not that most of todays’ aspiring adult artists are noticing – many are studying with self proclaimed Masters, doing workshops – almost all technique and material driven. Which leads me to ask, who is your teacher? Did they have formal art training? Do they know how to draw? Do they understand composition, color and content? Does anyone care?

Some of the best teachers I had were not the greatest artists but they understood and felt art and wanted to inspire others. They could be passionate about what drives us to create. Not through techniques or materials- they are only a means to an end. Anyone can glue one thing to another. A great teacher will not care so much about the materials but your intent. A great teacher understands how SEEING and not just LOOKING is key to the development of any visual artist who wants a full vocabulary to use for self expression.

“Well, I took a class in Italy and learned from a master. I know how to do it. Now I can pass those techniques onto others. That’s all my students need and want to know.” You can document techniques like a scientist but it takes an artist to interpret and truly reveal what is important and beautiful. An artist feels. An artist has intuition. An excellent art teacher can understand how a technique is meaningful for self expression. An experienced instructor will inspire students with examples of art throughout history and giving context to trends and movements in contemporary art.

I commend those that seek out an education – they are driven and compelled to learn. So many students see art as a relaxing and enjoyable way to create a product for the market. By all means good luck at making a living at your work, but don’t try to pass off that sunflower mirror as anything other than craft. Not something to ponder at a museum, but something pleasing to the eye to put over the kitchen table. Many artists get caught in the circle of commerce and pretty art; they stop relating to the work personally so they can fabricate design driven objects. These artists can go on and find purpose and connection in the work they make. It only takes one teacher who may open your eyes and bring your work to the next level.

Take a look at that instructor- choose excellence and experience over mediocrity. Go to your local fine art school- a place that challenges students to define themselves – take classes by professionals who have studied drawing, art history, and have a dedication to excellence in all mediums. When challenged in our work, one can find voice and give work and life meaning